Concerns Over Suspension of Civil Society Organizations in Ethiopia

The Ethiopian government's recent suspension of several prominent civil society organizations (CSOs) has sparked alarm among human rights advocates and the international community. This development highlights a troubling contraction of civic space in a nation grappling with ongoing conflicts and governance challenges.

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Background of the Suspensions

In November 2024, the Authority for Civil Society Organizations (ACSO) suspended three leading CSOs: the Association for Human Rights in Ethiopia (AHRE), the Center for Advancement of Rights and Democracy (CARD), and Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR). The suspensions were justified by allegations of “lack of political neutrality” and engaging in activities “against the national interest.”

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), a government-affiliated entity, expressed concern over the lack of detailed explanations provided to the suspended organizations. It warned that such actions could erode civic space and undermine the right to organize.

Criticism from Human Rights Advocates

International human rights groups have condemned these suspensions. Amnesty International labeled the actions as part of a broader crackdown on civic space in Ethiopia, emphasizing the critical role of these organizations in addressing human rights violations. Human Rights Watch also called for the immediate reversal of the suspensions, urging the Ethiopian government to respect the independence of civil society.

Adding to these concerns, France—one of the countries funding some of these organizations—expressed unease over the suspensions, calling them a potential setback for human rights and democratic processes in Ethiopia.

Temporary Reprieve and Renewed Challenges

In early December 2024, ACSO lifted the suspensions on the three organizations, allowing them to resume operations temporarily. However, this reprieve was short-lived as CARD was re-suspended shortly thereafter, raising questions about the transparency and consistency of the regulatory process governing CSOs in Ethiopia.

Broader Implications

The repeated suspensions of CSOs reflect a worrying trend of suppressing independent voices in Ethiopia. These actions, coupled with a lack of due process, have drawn widespread criticism. Observers warn that such measures could hinder efforts to promote human rights and democracy at a critical time for the nation.

In a speech to Parliament, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed added fuel to these concerns by stating that human rights language has been misused as a political tool. These comments have been described as “shocking” and “concerning” by civil society leaders, highlighting the growing tension between the government and rights organizations.